Coppola's Megalopolis Expands to Graphic Novel: 'Sibling, Not Echo'

In 2024, no film sparked as much debate and division as Francis Ford Coppola's Megalopolis. This audacious and unconventional epic became the center of attention right after its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival last year, drawing both acclaim and criticism throughout the year. Now, the visionary director is set to bring the story to life in a different medium: a graphic novel.

Titled Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis: An Original Graphic Novel, the book is scheduled for release in October by Abrams ComicArts, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. The adaptation will be penned by Chris Ryall, renowned for his work on adaptations of Stephen King, Harlan Ellison, and Clive Barker. The illustrations will be crafted by Jacob Phillips, known for his contributions to Newburn and That Texas Blood.

Coppola expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I was pleased to put the idea of a graphic novel in the competent hands of Chris Ryall with the idea that, although it was inspired by my film Megalopolis, it didn’t necessarily have to be limited by it. I hoped the graphic novel would take its own flight, with its own artists and writer so that it would be a sibling of the film, rather than just an echo.” He further added, “That’s what I feel Chris, Jacob Phillips and the team at Abrams ComicArts have accomplished. It confirms my feeling that art can never be constrained, but rather always a parallel expression, and part of the bounty we can make available to our patrons, audiences and readers.”

Megalopolis tells the story of a visionary architect, portrayed by Adam Driver, who is driven by a destiny to construct a modern utopian city. However, his ambitious project pits him against the city's mayor, played by Giancarlo Esposito, who is determined to thwart his plans to transform New Rome into Megalopolis. This narrative draws inspiration from Roman fables, adding a unique layer to the storyline.

While the film is not currently available for streaming, it can be rented or purchased at various movie platforms.